Caring For Your Dental Implants So They Last

Getting dental implants can greatly improve your oral health. What makes dental implants so great is that instead of being temporarily placed in your mouth like dentures are, they are fixed to your jawline so you have a new permanent set of teeth. Properly-set dental implants can last for the rest of your life with the right care. Here are tips to care for your new dental implants so they can last as long as possible.

Take care of your gums

Healthy gums mean dental implants that stay in place. Your gums function for your implants the same way they function for natural teeth: they work as a foundation for your teeth to sturdily rest in. Take care of your gums by flossing every day and brushing your dental implants the same way you would brush your original teeth. If you notice any swelling, change in gum color, or bleeding gums, see your dentist right away to address any infection that may compromise your oral health.

See your dentist regularly

Just because your dental implants aren't real teeth doesn't mean you don't need to see the dentist on a regular basis. You will want to revisit the dentist who performed your dental implant procedure a few times a year to make sure your jawbone is still healthy and that your implants are remaining firmly in place. Your dentist will also want to make sure your gum tissue is healthy and will give you recommendations for oral care, such as using an electric toothbrush or changing your toothbrush every few weeks to a new one for better cleaning.

Watch what you eat

Acidic foods and beverages, such as oranges or wine, can wear down the surface of your new teeth over time, leaving them weakened and more prone to cracking. If you consume acidic foods and beverages, make sure you rinse your mouth afterwards with water to reduce the acids left on your teeth. You also want to take care when eating hard foods, such as nuts, certain candies, and popcorn, so you don't crack your new teeth.

Don't ignore your mouth discomfort

If you want your dental implants to last, you need to pay attention to warning signs that things aren't going well. If your jaw begins to ache after you've healed from the procedure, your dental implants may have shifted or even become loose. You need to have your mouth discomfort addressed by your dentist right away so they can give you an examination to make sure your dental implants are secured properly.

Caring for your dental implants means you need to take care of your oral health just like you had to with your original teeth. If you have questions about your oral needs, consult with your dentist for guidance. With proper brushing, flossing, and regular checkups, you should be able to keep your dental implants for a lifetime.

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